Codes of Conduct

APPLAUD codes form an agreed standard of behaviour for everyone.

APPLAUD CODE FOR ADMINISTRATORS

I will:• ensure quality supervision and coaching for players• remember that players participate for their enjoyment and benefit• help coaches and officials highlight appropriate behaviour and skill development,and help improve the standards of coaching and officiating• ensure that everyone involved in rugby emphasises fair play• distribute a code of conduct to players, coaches, officials and parents and encourage them to follow it• respect the rights, dignity and worth of all people involved in the game, regardless of their gender, ability or culturalbackground• promote adherence to anti-doping policies.• use appropriate language with players, coaches, officials and spectators.• present myself in an appropriate way with all stakeholders.

APPLAUD CODE FOR COACHES

I will:• remember that players participate for enjoyment and winning is only part of the fun• never ridicule or yell at players for making a mistake or not winning• be reasonable in my demands on players’ time, energy, and enthusiasm• operate within the rules and spirit of the game and teach my players to do the same• ensure that the time players spend with me is a positive experience. All players are deserving ofequal attention and opportunities.• ensure that equipment and facilities meet safety standards and are appropriate to the age andability of all players• display control, respect and professionalism to all involved with the sport including opponents, referees, coaches, officials,administrators, the media, parents, and spectators. I will encourage my players to do the same.• show concern and caution toward sick and injured players and follow the advice of a physician when determiningwhether an injured player is ready to recommence training or competition• obtain appropriate qualifications and keep up to date with the latest coaching practices• respect the rights, dignity and worth of all people involved in the game, regardless of their gender, ability or cultural background• promote adherence to anti-doping policies• use appropriate language with players, coaches, officials and spectators.• present myself in an appropriate way with all stakeholders.

APPLAUD CODE FOR OFFICIALS

I will:• place the safety and welfare of players above all else• show concern and caution towards sick and injured players• be impartial, consistent, objective and courteous when making decisions• accept responsibility for my actions and decisions• condemn unsporting behaviour and promote respect for the individuality of players• avoid any situations which may lead to or be construed as a conflict of interest• be a positive role model in behaviour and personal appearance, and ensure my commentsare positive and supportive• be a good sport as I understand that actions speak louder than words• always respect, remain loyal to, and support other officials• keep up to date with the latest ‘Laws of the Game’, trends, and principles of their application• refrain from any form of personal abuse towards players or other officials• respect the rights, dignity and worth of all people involved in the game, regardless of their gender, ability or culturalbackground.

APPLAUD CODE FOR PARENTS/CAREGIVERS AND SPECTATORS

I will:• respect officials’ and coaches’ decisions• respect the efforts of their opponents• applaud good plays and performances by both my team and their opponents• give positive comments that motivate and encourage continued effort• support my team’s efforts and performance• thank the coaches, officials and other volunteers who give their time to conduct theevent• assist when asked by a coach or official• respect the rights, dignity and worth of all people involved in the game, regardless of their gender, ability or culturalbackground.• acknowledge that the game is the player’s game not mine.• use appropriate language with players, coaches, officials and other spectators.• present myself and act in an appropriate way at pre-game and after-match functions.

APPLAUD CODE FOR PLAYERS

I will:

• not argue with an official. If I disagree with a decision I will inform the captain, coach ormanager during a break or after the competition.• control my temper. I understand that verbal abuse of officials and other players, ordeliberately distracting or provoking an opponent is not acceptable or permitted behaviourin rugby.• work equally hard for myself and my team• treat all players in my sport as I like to be treated. I will not bully or take unfair advantageof another player.• co-operate with my coach, team mates and opponents• display modesty in victory and graciousness in defeat• participate for my own enjoyment and benefit, not just to please parents and coaches• respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion• thank the opposition and officials at the end of the game• comply with anti-doping policies.• use appropriate language with players, coaches, officials and other spectators.• present myself and act in an appropriate way at pre-game and after-match functions.